Alicia R. Chacón, a transformative figure in the political landscape of El Paso and a staunch advocate for her community, has passed away at the age of 87. Chacón’s lifelong commitment to public service and her pioneering achievements have left an indelible mark on the region.

Early Life and Influences

Born on November 11, 1938, in Canutillo, Texas, Chacón was shaped from a young age by her parents’ involvement in community and political activities. After graduating from Ysleta High School in 1957, her path toward public service became clear, inspired particularly by her mother’s work with the PTA and her father’s participation in local elections.

Catalyst for Change

Chacón’s journey into politics began in 1970 when she made history as the first Mexican American elected to the Ysleta Independent School District board. Over the following two decades, she accomplished numerous milestones: she became the first woman to hold the position of El Paso County Clerk, the first Mexican American woman elected to the El Paso City Council, and eventually, the first woman elected as El Paso County Judge.

National Recognition

Under President Jimmy Carter, Chacón was appointed as the first female regional director of the Small Business Administration, a role that further solidified her influence in regional and national politics.

Community Impact and Advocacy

Chacón’s influence extended beyond elected office. She served as the national chair of the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) and was president and CEO of United Way El Paso, leading the organization for seven impactful years. Her advocacy for farmworker rights, bilingual education, and related causes culminated in the establishment of the Border Farmworkers Center.

Honors and Legacy

In recognition of her achievements, Chacón’s name is celebrated in various local institutions, including the Alicia R. Chacón International School languages magnet campus and the Alicia R. Chacón Courtroom at the Enrique Moreno County Courthouse. She was inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame in 1986, a testament to her groundbreaking contributions.

Reflections on Life

Chacón once reflected on her life’s motivation during a 2017 video autobiography, stating, “Each of us can make a difference, in our neighborhoods, in our communities, and that begins to grow and you can make a difference in the whole country.” In answer to whether she felt she had a good life, she confidently replied, “Yes, I have.”